Posts Tagged ‘course’

The residential Veda Course is designed for those wishing to gain a foundational understanding of bhakti-yoga. Over a period of three months, the following modules are covered: Theology and Philosophy, Devotional Practice and Vaishnava Culture.

You will experience the early-morning devotional programme, practical temple services and the variety of festivals that make Bhaktivedanta Manor famous. Living in a spiritual community will help you to deepen your knowledge, strengthen your faith and build friendships that will last a lifetime.

The residential Veda Course is designed for those wishing to gain a foundational understanding of bhakti-yoga. Over a period of three months, the following modules are covered: Theology and Philosophy, Devotional Practice and Vaishnava Culture.

You will experience the early-morning devotional programme, practical temple services and the variety of festivals that make Bhaktivedanta Manor famous. Living in a spiritual community will help you to deepen your knowledge, strengthen your faith and build friendships that will last a lifetime.

The residential Veda Course is designed for those wishing to gain a foundational understanding of bhakti-yoga. Over a period of three months, the following modules are covered: Theology and Philosophy, Devotional Practice and Vaishnava Culture.

You will experience the early-morning devotional programme, practical temple services and the variety of festivals that make Bhaktivedanta Manor famous. Living in a spiritual community will help you to deepen your knowledge, strengthen your faith and build friendships that will last a lifetime.

“Just try to learn the truth by approaching a spiritual master. Inquire from him submissively and render service unto him. The self-realized souls can impart knowledge unto you because they have seen the truth.”

– Bhagavad-gita 4.34

Scriptures are littered with references pertaining to the importance of accepting and serving a spiritual master. But the path to a “bona-fide” guru can seem rather hazy at best, and fraught with danger at worst.

This course is designed to help you understand the guru-disciple relationship on a deeper level, and thus demistify the entire process.

Learn more about the qualifications of a spiritual master, how to recognize and choose a bona-fide guru, the significance and process of initiation, how to associate with your guru, the characteristics of a good disciple and his or her responsibilities in the relationship. The course also touches on the particulars of what acceptance of a guru practically means in the modern context of ISKCON today.

Though this course is an essential requirement for those seeking spiritual initiation, it is relevant to anyone who wants to learn more about this most sacred of relationships.

“Just try to learn the truth by approaching a spiritual master. Inquire from him submissively and render service unto him. The self-realized souls can impart knowledge unto you because they have seen the truth.”

– Bhagavad-gita 4.34

Scriptures are littered with references pertaining to the importance of accepting and serving a spiritual master. But the path to a “bona-fide” guru can seem rather hazy at best, and fraught with danger at worst.

This course is designed to help you understand the guru-disciple relationship on a deeper level, and thus demistify the entire process.

Learn more about the qualifications of a spiritual master, how to recognize and choose a bona-fide guru, the significance and process of initiation, how to associate with your guru, the characteristics of a good disciple and his or her responsibilities in the relationship. The course also touches on the particulars of what acceptance of a guru practically means in the modern context of ISKCON today.

Though this course is a requirement for those seeking spiritual initiation, it is relevant to anyone who wants to learn more about this most sacred of relationships.

“If you read Srimad Bhagavatam then immediately, you will realize God”

– His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada

The Srimad Bhagavatam (Bhāgavata Purāṇa) is referred to as the spotless Purana, which is “directed toward bringing about a revolution in the impious lives of this world’s misdirected civilization (SB 1.5.11).” It is replete with conversations and pastimes that are deeply instructive for our lives, thus providing a lifetime of reading, re-reading, study and contemplation.

It is not without reason that Rupa Goswami explains in his Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu that even a small attachment for Srimad Bhagavatam can arouse devotional ecstasy (bhava-bhakti), even in a neophyte.

It is often advised however that only when studying the Srimad Bhagavatam do we really gain a grasp of the key personalities, events and lessons that need to be learnt from this paramahamsa-samhita. Indeed, Srila Prabhupada often explains that these books need to be studied in the association of devotees. This “Bhagavatam Series” provides a chance to do just that. In these sessions, we will look into some of the fundamental pastimes in short, digestible chunks, with devotees.

Each pastime will consist of 4 three-hour sessions. They will be interactive and thought-provoking, encouraging learners to think for themselves about the practical application of the text to everyday life. The insights and association of fellow students will also add a unique flavour to the classes. Participants will have the opportunity to look at Srila Prabhupada’s purports and the various pastimes from different viewpoints. Through the power of the Bhagavatam, the sincere participant will no doubt walk away inspired and enlivened.

Please note that it is not necessary to attend Part 1 in order to do Part 2, or Part 2 in order to access Part 3, and so on. All Parts of The Bhagavatam Series are standalone.

Part 2 – Krsna and His devotees (Chapters 7-9)
4 lessons
Study the aftermath of the Kuruksetra war as Asvatthama tries for revenge, the timeless wisdom of Queen Kunti as she teaches us how to really deal with adversity, and the sagacious words of grandsire Bhisma as he leaves the world.Part 2 – Completed

Part 3 – Krsna and His Associates End Their Earthly Pastimes (Chapters 13-15 + Canto 11 Chapters 1, 30 & 31)
4 lessons
Delve into the renunciation of Dhṛtarāṣṭra as he finally leaves the palace for the forest, the untimely departure of Lord Krsna, and the subsequent retirement of the Pandavas. This Part 3 also looks at the 11th Canto, which gives us deeper insights into the intriguing circumstances surrounding the departure of the Lord.Course Dates: Sunday 24th May, 7th, 21st & 28th June 2015 (4 weeks) Note: 31st May is Snana Yatra & 14th June is Ratha YatraTime: 2pm – 5pm (please note afternoon timings)Course Fee: £30

Name(s) of Attendee(s)

Part 4 – Maharaja Parīkṣit & Kali Yuga (Chapters 16-19)
4 lessons
Study the entrance of Kali into the world, how the King was unduly cursed by a young brahmana boy, and Pariksit’s preparations for death as Sukadeva Goswami enters the assembly at an opportune moment.Course Dates: To be confirmedTime: 2pm – 5pmCourse Fee: £30

Name(s) of Attendee(s)

Please note, there is no assessment involved in these sessions.

This is essentially a Bhakti Vaibhava-‘lite’ course. The structure makes the study of the Bhagavatam more accessible for those unable to commit to a lengthy period of study and regular assessments as is the case with the official Bhakti Vaibhava course. Thus it gives participants breaks of a few weeks in between the various Parts. A strong understanding of the Bhagavad-gita is recommended in order to be able to keep pace with the lessons. Bhakti Shastri is a plus. For those less familiar with the philosophy of Krishna consciousness, the Bhagavat Life course is more appropriate.

Further information about dates will be published soon.

Participants can sign up to each individual Part as they go along, or enroll for all 4 parts together for a discounted price of £100:

You can sign up to this course by following the Paypal links above, or at the Manor reception (call 01923 851000 and make clear what you are signing up to). You will then receive e-mail confirmation of your place on the course.

“This Deity worship – this is training. The same thing will continue when you go to Vaikuntha or Vrndavana.” (Lecture on SB 2.3.1-3 – Los Angeles, May 22, 1972)

Deity worship is a key means by which to develop a personal conception of the Lord and the mood of service. In the home, it can help to make the Lord the centre of the household and worshippers to purify their existence. Ultimately it is the training ground for the spiritual world, and thus a fundamental aspect of one’s development in Krishna consciousness.

Furthermore, it was Srila Prabhupada’s desire that his followers develop the qualities of a brahmana. Peacefulness, self-control, austerity, purity, sobriety etc. are all important aspects for the sadhaka to develop in her or his devotional life. But we often wonder how we can practically cultivate these virtues.

Please come to this seminar to gain insights into the following topics, and more:

– Principles of brahminical lifestyle
– Making the deity the centre of the home
– Standards of worship
– Developing brahminical qualities

“Every one of my disciples should become so nicely trained that they may all develop the brahminical qualities.” (Letter to Turya – Calcutta January 27, 1973)

HG Pankajanghri das joined the Manor and became an initiated disciple of HDG AC Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada in 1973. He was present for the installation of Sri Sri Radha Gokhulananda in the same year.

Soon afterwards, he visited Sridhama Mayapur, an experience that completely blew him away. He decided to settle in Mayapur in 1974 and took up pujari services, serving alongside his twin brother Jananivas das. Since then, both have remained there and become established as amongst the leading authorities on deity worship within ISKCON. Pankajanghri das is regularly requested by other ISKCON centres around the world to share his expertise on deity worship as well as other aspects of Krishna Consciousness.

This is a rare opportunity to hear from him and have a chance to ask questions in relation to deity worship within the home. This is not a session to be missed.

“Just try to learn the truth by approaching a spiritual master. Inquire from him submissively and render service unto him. The self-realized souls can impart knowledge unto you because they have seen the truth.”

– Bhagavad-gita 4.34

Scriptures are littered with references pertaining to the importance of accepting and serving a spiritual master. But the path to a “bona-fide” guru can seem rather hazy at best, and fraught with danger at worst.

This course is designed to help you understand the guru-disciple relationship on a deeper level, and thus demistify the entire process.

Learn more about the qualifications of a spiritual master, how to recognize and choose a bona-fide guru, the significance and process of initiation, how to associate with your guru, the characteristics of a good disciple and his or her responsibilities in the relationship. The course also touches on the particulars of what acceptance of a guru practically means in the modern context of ISKCON today.

Though this course is an essential requirement for those seeking spiritual initiation, it is relevant to anyone who wants to learn more about this most sacred of relationships.

“The two most important days of your life are the day you were born and the day you find out why.”

All of us have questions about life. Who are we? Why are we here? Why do bad things happen to good people? What happens after death? But living in such a fast paced world we run out of time to eat, drink and even sleep let alone finding time to explore our deeper thoughts. Explore focuses on the key themes of The Bhagavad-gita which is universally renowned as the crown jewel of India’s spiritual wisdom. Spoken by Sri Krishna, to His intimate friend, Arjuna, the Bhagavad-gita’s 700 concise verses provide a definitive guide to the science of yoga and self-realization.

In 4 sessions, grasp the core themes of the Bhagavad-gita and how they apply to the modern individual. Partake in dynamic seminars, group discussions and guided meditations. We aim to give you a framework which will aid you to personally cultivate strong spiritual habits.

Course Modules
1. What is Success?
2. Who is God?
3. Karma: Good or Bad?
4. Art of Living

The Bhagavad-gita is universally renowned as a timeless masterpiece of spiritual wisdom. Spoken by Sri Krishna, to His intimate friend, Arjuna, the Bhagavad-gita’s 700 concise verses provide a definitive guide to the science of yoga and self-realization.

“Gita Life” provides a chapter-by-chapter summary, giving pertinent themes and life lessons from this historical epic. There are also insights into the culture and practice of this ancient tradition including meditation, music and drama.

The 10 sessions are thought-provoking and interactive. You will leave feeling enlivened and refreshed.

You can sign up to this course by following the Paypal link below, or at the Manor reception (01923 851000). You will then receive e-mail confirmation of your place on the course.

Name(s) of Attendee(s)

In Praise of The Gita

“When I read the Bhagavad-gita and reflect about how God created this universe everything else seems so superfluous.”~ Albert Einstein

“The Bhagavad-gita has a profound influence on the spirit of mankind by its devotion to God which is manifested by actions.”~ Dr. Albert Schweitzer

“The Bhagavad-gita is the most systematic statement of spiritual evolution of endowing value to mankind. It is one of the most clear and comprehensive summaries of perennial philosophy ever revealed; hence its enduring value is subject not only to India but to all of humanity.”~ Aldous Huxley

“When doubts haunt me, when disappointments stare me in the face, and I see not one ray of hope on the horizon, I turn to Bhagavad-gita and find a verse to comfort me; and I immediately begin to smile in the midst of overwhelming sorrow. Those who meditate on the Gita will derive fresh joy and new meanings from it every day.”~ Mahatma Gandhi

“I owed a magnificent day to the Bhagavad-gita. It was the first of books’ it was as if an empire spoke to us, nothing small or unworthy, but large, serene, consistent, the voice of an old intelligence which in another rage and climate had pondered and thus disposed of the same questions which exercise us.”~ Ralph Waldo Emerson